In its first-ever sustainability report, the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) sets out its vision for sustainable development, noting that industry is determined to play a key role in ensuring that by 2050 over 9 billion people live well, and within the planet’s resources.
The report was unveiled at a special event in May at the European Parliament in Brussels hosted by European members of parliament Karl-Heinz Florenz and Vittorio Prodi. It provides 17 key performance indicators that serve as a benchmark of industry sustainability efforts to date that the sector plans to measure itself against in future.
Cefic President Giorgio Squinzi, outlining the report’s vision, said: “All of the industry’s activities will be directed towards enabling a future where people have access to the necessities of a healthy life, to economic prosperity and to societal progress.”
The publication details all three “pillars” of sustainability – planet, people and profit – and features case studies drawn from chemical companies, national associations and Cefic sector groups that illustrate contributions to sustainability, such as energy-efficient water purification, lightweight materials for cars and better building insulation as well as recycling and chemicals management activities.
Carl Van Camp, Cefic Sustainability Strategy Group chairman, said: “We have a good track record when it comes to sustainability, and remain committed to programs like Responsible Care. We are a partner in ensuring that the REACH chemicals legislation works and stand ready to have a lead role in EU-led public-private projects such as key enabling technologies.”
Flagship initiatives
As part of its sustainability strategy, Cefic will identify flagship initiatives to increase and improve the sector’s contribution to the sustainability policy agenda, which includes environmental, health and safety, and chemicals management practices
“Sustainability is about a mindset change in the way we work and high-tech products the chemicals industry makes. The flagship initiatives are one way in which stakeholders expect us to continue to drive the technological breakthroughs that society will need,” Squinzi concluded. “We can help ensure a sustainable future by working with stakeholders, having a well-trained workforce in place, and through strong business performance that attracts further investments.”
To access the report, go to: www.cefic.org/sustainabilityreport2012